—artist, poet, author, interior designer, and the heart behind LifeGiver. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been creating—art, homes, words—anything that brings beauty and life into the world. Nearly three decades into my creative journey, I still approach my work with the curiosity of a beginner, constantly pushing myself to grow, embrace discomfort, and try new things. 

 

I live in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, with my husband, Drew, our five children, and two cats, and have a baby waiting for us in Heaven. Over the past 17 years, Drew and I have moved seven times—sometimes while pregnant or with a newborn in tow—and flipped homes along the way. Right now, we’re in the middle of our fourth remodel , turning houses into homes while raising our family and living this crazy, beautiful life together. 

 

My Story 

 

A few years ago, I found myself drowning under the weight of my dreams and blessings—the very things I had prayed for. On the outside, life looked picture-perfect: I was homeschooling my kids, my husband was thriving in his work, we had just bought our first rental to flip, and everything seemed to be in place. But inside, I felt overwhelmed, empty, and stuck. I envisioned myself in the middle of the ocean, ropes tied around me, pulling me down, while Jesus stood above me, His hand reaching out. It was a turning point for me. I realized I couldn’t keep pouring from an empty cup. I couldn’t keep waiting for someone to rescue me. I had everything I needed to be filled again: access to Living Water, a God who saw me, and a purpose worth carrying. Slowly, I learned to let Him show me a better way to hold the load. That experience shaped everything I create. Whether it’s a painting, a poem, or a home, I want my work to be a place of renewal—a breath of fresh air for women who give so much of themselves to others. 

 

My Mission 

 

I grew up in a culture that made me feel like being a woman was a limitation rather than a gift. I spent so many years trying to prove myself, believing strength meant hiding any part of me that felt soft, nurturing, or feminine. But when I encountered the Holy Spirit, I saw a God who loves and values women as co-creators—partners in His image who bring life into the world in ways only we can. Now, I create to celebrate that truth. My art—especially in my new series, The Essence of Woman—explores the beauty, strength, and purpose God has placed in women. Whether it’s through a painting, poetry, or a story, my mission is simple: to remind women of who we are, Whose we are, and why we’re here. 

 

My Work 

 

I’ve shared my art at events like the No Suicide exhibition at New Life Church in Sioux Falls, painted murals for Union Gospel Mission and Miss Jasper’s House, and seen my decorating work featured in This Old House magazine. I’ve also written for Gritty Faith magazine and published my book, Re-Creating Me: Master the Art of Your Identity. Re-Creating Me was born out of my own journey—from an unsuccessful suicide attempt to discovering a life of purpose and freedom. It’s for the woman who’s lost sight of herself in religion, marriage, or motherhood, and it’s an invitation to heal, reflect, and step into her God-given identity. I’ve also created a series of journals for women in every season: for the devoted, the overburdened, the unseen, and those longing for quiet reflection. Most recently, I poured 25 years of poetry into a book for those seeking to know and be known by the living God—a collection I pray will help others feel seen, loved, and a little less alone.

 

About LifeGiver

 

I created LifeGiver as a space to share what I’ve learned along the way—my art, my poetry, the homes I’ve made, and the hope I’ve found. Here, you’ll find:

 

 • Hope: Reflections on healing, faith, and freedom as God continues to restore and renew me from the inside out.

 

 • Homemaking: Our journey of turning houses into homes, practical insights on family and marriage, and simple recipes that make life a little easier.

 

 • Creations: Paintings and poetry that celebrate beauty, purpose, and the essence of who God made women to be. 

 

 This is my offering to you—to give life back to the life-givers, to meet you where you are, and to remind you that you are seen, valued, and made with purpose. You’re always welcome here.